Has anyone out there swapped in a 5spd manual transmission into an Explorer V8 that came with an auto? I'm looking for advice from people who've done it, or think it could be done. What transmission(s) could work between the 5.0L v8 in 1996-1999 Explorers and the transfer case (I need 4 wheel drive)? What kinds of adapters would be needed in the drivline? How would the transmission mount?

Mounting the shifter and clutch hydraulics can come later... I'm just looking for basic "Can it be done."

I haven't bought the a truck yet - I'm considering options right now.

I want to shift 5spd - but really like the V8 power and customizability, as well as all the bells and whistles that come in the V8/auto trucks such as sunroof, leather seats....

Thanks,
Aaron

 

advanced adapters has a t5 transfer adapter.but the t5 shifter will put the seat all the way back almost 4" further than it needs to be.the tremec 3550 or tko with a midshift kit will be about right.but no transfer adapter.if you find any thing else out post it.i have not found any ford pieces that work.the f150 m5r2 and transfer dont work.although a chevy/jeep piece might do it. i dont know

 

I've been doing some digging - and the driveline mods seem like they may work using the T5 and some adaptors from Advance Adaptors and parts from junkyard explorers.

However, the Advance adaptors T5 to x-case is for the 1350 x-case in the 91-94 explorers. What about the 1998 control trac explorers? Don't those have the BW 4405 t-case? will the adapter work on this as well?

Also - Gear ratios.
The 4R70W has ratios of 2.84 1.55 1.00 0.70, there are MANY versions of the T5 - which would work best? Is it better to have a 1st gear with a higher number or lower number?


The shifter being 4" back seems like a problem. Is there a way to fabricate a linkage to move it forward? It could even be in-cab... I'd make a cool center console.

-Aaron